Franciscan Connection services and emergency assistance.
Very limited financial aid and support may be available from the Franciscan Connection. The faith based group can help those facing poverty, single mothers, the unemployed, and seniors. While the emergency help is limited due to funding levels, the faith based group will assist in any other way possible.
All of the help and advice provided is done so in a caring, listening way. They provide the less fortunate with the respect and support they need in a non-judgmental way. They try to come up with creative solutions to offering low-income families and individuals assistance. Another focus is on self-sufficiency, including employment and access to affordable housing.
The aid and support is provided by benefactors, volunteers, friends, and even neighbors. The greater St. Louis community can often come together to help those with no other options and that are out of options. A goal is to prevent homelessness, ensure people are fed, and address any unsafe living conditions.
Outreach, along with emergency financial support, has been operating since the early 1990s. It was started in partnership with Sacred Heart Province as well as Franciscan Friars. Over the years thousands of people from the community have been assisted. The main programs available are below.
Heating and utility bill assistance is always under high demand in St. Louis. This will focus on the least fortunate, elderly, or maybe families with young children or infants. It can be important to keep heat on during the cold St. Louis winters, and Franciscan Connection may have funds available for paying these utilities.
The fact is, that by offering some financial assistance for paying a utility bill, it could often save a homebound disabled person or senior citizen from another night without adequate heat or electricity. It can even save a life if the weather is cold enough.
Clothing and school supplies are available, with a focus on students or people looking for employment. There may be shoes, backpacks, donated suits, and more. Having something as small as new shoes or school supplies could ready a child or teenager for that first day back in school. It will also even improve their confidence.
Employment services may be a bus pass to get to an interview. Or maybe if someone’s car broke down, vouchers may be provided for transportation while the car is in the shop.
Seasonal help in St. Louis include a free Christmas basket with meals or toys for children. This could brighten a family’s holiday time and spread joy. Or inquire into Thanksgiving and Easter meals.
In addition to the emergency aid and services mentioned above, Franciscan Connection and is volunteers want to end the cycle of poverty in St. Louis. So they coordinate one-on-one support and case management. This is for people who come to their door seeking help. The charity will refer them to government benefits or other churches for help if needed. Assisting the client to become self-sufficient is a priority.
Services are offered without discrimination to age, race, or religion. Many families are single parents, or maybe minorities. There are also elderly widows, disabled, homeless men and many other types of people requesting support. Many have as their only source of income TANF - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, SSDI disability, Social Security, and/or live on entry-level wages. However, people need to be out of all other options. They also need to of course be low-income.
To learn more or apply for help, the center is at Franciscan Connection, 2903 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63118. Call (314) 773-8485.
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